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Tech defensive coordinator James Willis leaves football program after first season

Texas Tech defensive coordinator James Willis has left the program to “pursue other career opportunities,” according to an announcement Sunday by the Tech athletic department. Willis won’t coach in the Red Raiders’ game Saturday against Northwestern at the TicketCity Bowl in Dallas.

Willis had a rocky first season at Tech, with his defense ranking No. 116 out of 120 major-college teams in total defense and last in pass defense.

“I wish James the best of luck, but it is important for (the) football team to keep pressing forward,” Tech coach Tommy Tuberville said in a statement. “We have a great defensive staff here that will carry the load along with my assistance as we prepare for Northwestern.”

Tech made the announcement about 6 p.m. Sunday in a three-paragraph statement. Tech spokesman Blayne Beal said Tuberville would not discuss the development until Monday in Dallas, when the Red Raiders have their first on-site bowl workout.

Beal would not say when asked whether Willis’ leaving was a resignation.

Willis, a former NFL linebacker, came to Tech in January from after being a position coach on Alabama’s 2009 national championship team.